India Travel Advice & Safety

Updated:21 November 2025
Still Valid:Yes
Latest update:We’ve reviewed our advice for India and continue to advise exercise a high degree of caution overall. Higher levels apply in some areas.
 

We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in India overall due to the threat of terrorism and crime and the risk of civil unrest.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Advice Levels

Level 2
Exercise a high degree of caution in India overall due to the threat of terrorism and crime and the risk of civil unrest.
Level 3

Do not travel to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the India-Pakistan border, or Manipur, due to the danger of armed clashes, terrorist activities and violent demonstrations.

This doesn't apply to the Union Territory of Ladakh, which was established as its own union territory of India in October 2019, separate from the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

Level 4

Reconsider your need to travel to:

  • Chhattisgarh and the border areas of its neighbouring states
  • Nagaland
  • Assam's Tinsukia, Charaideo and Sivasagar districts

due to the high risk of violence.

Full Advice

  • Terrorism remains a risk in India. On 10 November, there was an explosion near the Red Fort (Lal Quila) metro station in New Delhi with multiple casualties. Indian authorities have labelled the blast a terrorist incident .
  • Terrorist activities, violent demonstrations and armed clashes sometimes occur. Avoid crowded places and possible targets. Large crowds at religious ceremonies and gatherings can also be dangerous. People have been killed in stampedes. Always have an exit plan.
  • We continue to advise do not travel to the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the entire India-Pakistan border, or Manipur. This doesn’t apply to the Union Territory of Ladakh, which was established as its own union territory of India in October 2019, separate from the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The Attari Border has been closed.
  • Curfews and restrictions have been imposed in parts of Manipur. Security agencies have increased their presence in the region. Mobile data, internet and transport services have been affected. Further restrictions may be imposed at short notice. If you are in Manipur, you should consider leaving if it’s safe to do so. Monitor local media for updates, follow the advice of local authorities and take official warnings seriously.
  • Women may face higher levels of verbal and physical harassment or sexual assault. Avoid travelling alone, even in major cities and tourist sites.
  • Travellers have been robbed and assaulted after consuming spiked drinks or food. Don’t leave your food or drinks unattended or accept food or drinks from strangers. Be alert to the potential risks around drink spiking and methanol poisoning through consuming alcoholic drinks. 
  • Petty theft is common in crowded areas such as markets and public transport. Thieves on motorbikes snatch bags and jewellery. Carry only what you need. Pay close attention to your belongings.
  • Scams are common. These can involve fake tour guides, ATM and credit card skimming, and fraudulent access to government services. If you’re a scam victim, report it to the police to get an official report for your travel insurer.
  • Severe weather is common. This includes heat waves and dust storms in summer and flooding during the monsoon season. Check with your tour operator for possible disruptions.
  • Medical facilities in major cities have adequate treatment standards. The availability of treatment can be very limited or unavailable in remote and rural areas. You may need to be evacuated if you’re seriously ill or injured. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.
  • Various strains of influenza occur throughout India.
  • Insect-borne diseases are common. Malaria is a risk in many parts of India, including major cities. Dengue is widespread, especially during the monsoon season. Zika virus outbreaks may occur. Other insect-borne diseases include Japanese encephalitis, chikungunya and filariasis. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent. Get vaccinated. If you’re pregnant, discuss this with your doctor.
  • Cases of Mpox have been reported in India. Maintain strict hygiene standards and avoid physical contact with anyone who has Mpox (see ‘Health risks’).
  • HIV/AIDS is widespread. Take precautions if you engage in high-risk activities.
  • Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are very common. These include cholera, typhoid and hepatitis. Drink only treated or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
  • Air pollution can reach dangerous levels, especially in winter. It can disrupt transport and cause breathing problems. Discuss your travel plans with a doctor if you have an existing health condition. Elderly persons, pregnant mothers and those with newborns should take extra care.
  • Always carry your passport and ensure you have a valid visa. It’s illegal not to. It’s illegal to conduct missionary work without a proper visa.
  • Carrying or using a satellite phone or GPS-enabled devices (including emergency locator beacons) without official permission is illegal. Failure to comply could result in arrest, detention, large fines, confiscation of the device and significant travel delays.
  • Don’t use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and include mandatory sentences and the death penalty.
  • Check local alcohol laws before you visit. Laws on the legal drinking age and alcohol purchase vary between states.
  • It’s illegal to import, possess or use e-cigarettes, vaporisers (vapes) or their components, such as refills. Penalties include imprisonment.
  • It’s illegal to fly drones and other unmanned aircraft without official permission. Contact local police for advice. It’s illegal to carry or export antiquities without a permit. Contact your nearest Indian embassy or consulate for advice. It’s illegal to photograph airports, military sites and dams. Some places of worship also prohibit photography.
  • Cows roam freely in India. It’s illegal to maim or kill them deliberately. In some states, the penalty is up to 5 years in jail.
  • India has strict dress and behaviour codes, especially at religious sites. Physical contact between men and women in public might be considered inappropriate.
  • A Look Out Circular (LOC) may be issued against you if you are charged with an offence, or a complaint is made against you. This will prevent you from leaving India until court proceedings are finalised. Court proceedings in India are lengthy and delays are common.
  • You must apply for a visa before arrival. Check your eligibility and apply online for an e-visa by visiting the Government of India’s Indian Visa Online website. For information on other visa types and immigration requirements, see the eFRRO and Bureau of Indian Immigration websites or contact the nearest high commission/embassy or consulate of India for the latest details.
  • You’re required to complete the online e-Arrival Card up to 3 days before travel to India. This applies to Australian citizens and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card holders.
  • You may need permission from Indian authorities to visit ‘restricted’ or ‘protected’ areas, particularly in the north-east.
  • All land border crossing points between India and Pakistan are closed.
  • Travelling by road can be dangerous, particularly at night. Accidents are common.
  • If you’ve had a baby in India, you must inform the Foreigners Registration Office (FRRO) and secure the appropriate travel document and Indian visa to remain legally in the country or to travel. Failure to comply could result in significant financial penalties. 

Depending on what you need, contact your:

  • family and friends
  • travel agent
  • insurance provider
  • employer
  • airline

All emergencies

Call 112

Fire and rescue services

Call 101

Medical emergencies

Call 102

Police

Call 100

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.